Clandonald Country Fair A Day Of Enjoyment
The annual Clandonald Country Fair took place, and was a resounding success with its theme, Flashback Over 50 Years’ which brought a day packed
morning with a scrumptious pancake breakfast from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. The breakfast, priced at $12 per person, was accompanied by music from The Prairie Dogs that made a lively start to the day.
The morning also featured the
options. For those feeling lucky, Bingo was available from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m., while the Tractor Pedal Pushers, children’s races, skills competition, and bubble balls added a touch of friendly competition to the event. A couple of
captivated the crowd. Attendees also had the opportunity to watch the Fire Department Demo, which is always a hit with the young and old.
The Pipes & Drums was on site as well as family entertainment, and much
The Clandonald Country Fair has always been a cherished occasion for families and friends to come together and create lasting memories. With free -
Top left, Lilly and Seth Irvine from Marwayne. Top right, children in the 6 and under watermelon easting contest. Bottom left, teenagers enjoying a friendly competition of Bubble Ball. Bottom right, a float displaying 50 years of Clandonald agriculture. Photos Lorna Hamilton
Lorna Hamilton Reporter
Emergency Training Centre Holds Program Info Sessions
Caylie Gnyra Reporter
On Friday, August 9, Lakeland College’s Emergency Training Centre (ETC) hosted a Program Information Session, drawing 35 prospective students and their families from Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, and the Northwest Territories. The event provided a comprehensive overview of Lakeland’s industry-leading fire and emergency services programs in firefighting, emergency services technology, and bachelor of applied business: emergency services.
Danielle White of the college’s marketing and enrolment team kicked off the morning with a brief introduction to Lakeland, followed by President Dr. Alice WainwrightStewart’s warm welcoming address. The ETC’s Chair Lyle Lawrence then provided an overview of the fire school’s 65-year history, highlighting the strength of the local community and the ties that brought what was formerly the Alberta Fire Training School under the umbrella of Lakeland College. It became a subsidiary corpora-
tion in 1997, then fully integrated with Lakeland in 2004.
Lawrence emphasized the quality of Lakeland’s firefighter certificate program, which adheres to National Fire Protection Association standards and offers internationally recognized Firefighter I and II certifications. Each of these certificate programs lasts 12 weeks, with time spent equally in the classroom and in handson training. Lawrence also spoke about the Emergency Services Technology (EST) program, an accelerated 12-month diploma course with specializations in firefighting and emergency medical. The EST program provides students the foundation of the Firefighter I and II certifications but then builds on those skills, offering courses in professional writing, aerial apparatus training, and fire training instructing, as well as an off-site practicum that bolsters students’ employability. In addition to these certificate and diploma programs, the ETC also offers an applied business degree in emergency services, which is delivered entirely online.
On top of having access to a worldclass training facility at Lakeland, students have also had the opportunity to experience learning in action, serving at the Jasper and Parkland County wildfires over the past few summers. Some of these students were on hand at the Program Info Session, ready to talk to prospective students about their own experiences with the school.
White acknowledged that the variety of programs may feel overwhelming, but that she and other staff were on hand to help prospective students to look at their timelines, and encouraged them to look into the requirements of the departments they were hoping to get hired into.
Representatives from Lakeland’s Financial Aid office shared options for funding, highlighting that the certificate and diploma programs were both eligible for full-time student loans as well as awards and bursaries.
The ETC’s head of Logistics, Wayne Rose, then introduced the 50 acres of fire training props at the Vermilion campus.
Participants divided into three groups for tours that concluded with a demonstration of the loading dock prop, where a controlled flame grew to an impressive size to show an example of the hands-on learning Lakeland is so well known for.
Walking back to the main building from the prop field, prospective students and parents had the opportunity to talk to faculty and enrolment specialists about the ETC’s programs. Upon their return, they were greeted by EST students, who had prepared a barbecued lunch for the visitors.
After lunch, guests took part in optional activities, including tours of the Vermilion campus residence and recreation facilities, assistance with program applications, asking questions about financial aid, and learning about the college’s support services.
The ETC will open again to the public on October 18 and 19 for the college-wide Open House, running from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. For more information about programs, visit https://www.lakelandcollege.ca/fire
Prospective emergency services students gathered at Lakeland College’s Emergency Training Centre on August 9
firefighting training props. Photos Caylie Gnyra
lot 54. Ardmore AB. Starts @ 10:00 am. 1957 Buick Roadmaster, Ford 1200 compact tractor, 2 Ford 9N tractors, Massey Harris 30, snap-on tool boxes
A photo from last year. Photo credit Laurie Rae Photography
Dawn Hames Columnist
Rhubarb Cake With Butter Cream Icing
We are in the middle of a beautiful summer. Thankfully the smoke has passed and the air is cleared. The summer evenings are refreshing. By our dugout, the sound of the frogs croaking is the evening music. I have to be very quiet, as they stop singing if I make my presence known. The rhubarb patch is thriving. Rhubarb is great for pies, crisps, and even this cake. Strawberries are in season right now, and they add a wonderful flavour to rhubarb pie. Even if you do not grow rhubarb, you can usually pick some up at the farmers market, as it is in season right now. Always remember that the leaves of the rhubarb plant are poisonous. Rhubarb is mildly laxative. Research shows that it may be beneficial for diabe -
Craig Baird Columnist
With a new month upon us, that means it is time to look back and see what was happening in the
tes as it mimics the action of insulin, allowing the sugar to enter the cell, where it may be burned instead of circulating in the blood. Rhubarb is not a good food choice for those people who are prone to form oxalate kidney stones. Rhubarb can be easily frozen for later use by cutting it up into 1-inch pieces, blanching it for 1 minute, and then rinsing it in cool water, patting dry, and packaging it in plastic freezer bags. Rhubarb is also a good source of fiber, vitamin K, and vitamin C.
Rhubarb Cake with Butter Cream Icing
1/2 cup butter
1 cup of sugar, (divided)
1 egg
1 tsp vanilla
1 cup milk
1 tablespoon vinegar, apple cider or white
1 teaspoon baking soda
2 cups flour
2 1/2 cups rhubarb, (finely sliced)
Finely chop the rhubarb and stir in 1/2 cup sugar. In a separate bowl cream, the butter and 1/2 cup sugar together with an electric beater, beat in the egg, and vanilla. Measure the tablespoon of vinegar into a 1 cup measure and then fill with milk, stirring half way. Buttermilk can be substituted for the vinegar and milk. Beat the milk into the butter mixture, and then beat in the baking soda and flour. Stir in the sugar-coated rhubarb, pour into a buttered 9 x 9” or 8 x 8” pan and bake for 30-40 minutes at 350 degrees. When cool frost with a butter cream icing. Note that the original recipe used margarine instead of butter and 1 and half cups sugar and only two cups of rhubarb.
Strawberry Rhubarb Pie
2 cups of sliced rhubarb
2 cups of strawberries
2 tablespoons of melted butter
3/4 cup of sugar
1 egg
1 tablespoons cream or milk
3 tablespoons flour
Slice the rhubarb into 1.4 Inch slices. Beat the egg, add the sugar and the melted butter, cream, and flour. Stir in the rhubarb and strawberries. Pour into an unbaked shell, and then cover a top pastry or with strips of pastry to form a lattice. You can sprinkle the top of the pastry with a teaspoon of sugar, but that is optional. Bake at 400 degrees for 15 minutes, and then at 350 degrees for 30 – 40 minutes. Here are some additional tips: Because a fruit pie will sometimes bubble over, place the pie on a cookie sheet in the oven. If you use frozen rhubarb, the pie will be waterier. To combat this, add an additional one tablespoon of flour. Another tip to help prevent a soggy bottom crust is to sprinkle the crust with 1 or 2 teaspoons of sugar before adding in the rhubarb and strawberry pie filling.
Vermilion In August 1924
community exactly 100 years ago this month.
On Aug. 6, the Vermilion Agricultural Society held its fair and it was agreed that it was the biggest and best fair the organization had ever put on. H.A. Craig, the deputy minister of agriculture, was on hand and stated he was surprised by the strong showing made in every line presented.
R.G. Reid, the provincial secretary and future premier of Alberta was also a visitor and stated he was surprised by the splendid event.
On Aug. 7, a massive storm hit Vermilion, dumping a massive amount of rain on the community, soaking the ground and ruining several crops with hail. That same day, a large group
of ex-students of the Vermilion School of Agriculture, and invited guests, were on hand for a dinner served at the Brunswick Hotel. About 100 invitations went out for the affair.
On Aug. 14, Vermilion welcomed Sir Henry Thornton, the president of the Canadian National Railways to the community. He was only going to be in town briefly, but there was planned to be a brief reception at the train station with an address from Mayor Morrison.
On Aug. 15, the GWVA held its annual meeting and elected D. Taylor as its honorary president and T. Watts as the sitting president.
On Aug. 18, the Vermilion Creamery shipped out five train cars loaded with butter. It was another example of how
Company creamery, which was heading to the Vancouver Creamery Company. The company had only recently moved to its new brick premises in town.
That same day, F.S. Wright, editor of the Good Roads Magazine, was in town to inspect the proposed tourists’ camping ground at the golf course. He considered it to be an ideal location for a campground.
On Aug. 25, Grain harvesting began in the Vermilion district. It was hoped that the harvest would be a good one, considering dry weather and storms that had hit through the spring and summer.
Contact Craig at craig@canadaehx. com
Support Craig by donating at www. canadaehx.com (Click Donate)
Allandale Community Unites To Revitalize Historic Church In A Painting Bee
Lorna Hamilton Reporter
On August 9, under clear skies and warm summer sunshine, the community of Allandale came together in a show of unity and dedication to restore one of the area’s cherished historical landmarks—the Allandale United Church. The event, fondly dubbed a “painting bee,” saw volunteers of all ages rolling up their sleeves to give the building a fresh coat of paint and a new lease on life.
The Allandale United Church, steeped in history, originally served as the North Vermilion Methodist Church from 1907 until 1954. The church was moved to its current location on an acre of land generously donated by Mr. and Mrs. Lloyd Darling. Since May 2, 1954, it has been known as the Allandale United Church. The first service in its new home was attended by approximately 60 parishioners and was led by student minister Stanley Calder from Bow Valley Island, Alberta.
While the church no longer operates as an active place of worship since the Fall of 1968, it remains a beloved symbol of the community’s heritage. The building has been privately purchased by a few dedicated individuals [firstly Nora Ronaghn, who passed it to her son Allan Ronaghn and his wife Shirley, who sold the building to its current owner before Allan’s passing] who, with the help of local volunteers, have worked to preserve its historical significance. Though unused for regular services, the church’s physical presence is a testament to the enduring spirit of the Allandale community.
“A few years back members of the Vermilion United Church attended an outside service here at the Allandale church since it has been closed and it was nice to be able
to go inside and see the old church,” said a member of the Vermilion United Church who was in attendance at the painting bee. Also there was an outside Wedding for Trent and Carmen Throndson.
Over the years, the church has aged well, with just the windows broken by weather and then being subsequently boarded up. The roof is still holding and the exterior is sound, only needing paint. Despite these signs of wear, the Allandale United Church continues to be a valued part of the community’s history.
The painting bee was more than just a day of fun work; it was a celebration of community spirit and a shared commitment to preserving the past. As volunteers painted and repaired the exterior, there was a palpable sense of pride and camaraderie. The event not only breathed new life into the church but also reinforced the community’s pledge to maintain this historical gem for future generations.
Although the church may not be in perfect condition, it stands as a reminder of Allandale’s rich history and the collective effort to keep that history alive. Visitors are still welcome to step inside this storied structure, with the gentle request to leave it as they found it, honouring the efforts of those who strive to preserve its legacy.
As long as there are people in Allandale who care about their shared history, the Allandale United Church will remain a symbol of community resilience and dedication.
“A Huge “ Thank You “ to All who helped organize the Painting Bee at the Allandale Church and Especially Everyone who came out to Help, Thanks,” commented the owner.
24082ZC0
Members of the Allandale Community who gathered to repaint the church. Photo Lorna Hamilton
Lorna Hamilton Reporter
Vermilion Tim Hortons Donates To KidSport
The Vermilion Tim Hortons continues to show its support for the community by participating in the Smile Cookie campaign each year. The campaign raises funds for local charities and organizations across Canada by selling delicious cookies with a smiley face design for just one week. This year, the local Tim Hortons donated a whopping $5,103.14 to KidSport-Vermilion, an organization that provides grant funding for children under the age of 18 to cover registration and/or equipment costs for sports and physical activities.
Since its inception in 1996, the Smile Cookie campaign has raised millions of dollars for various charitable organizations across Canada. Vermilion Tim Hortons, locally owned and operated by Greg Whitney, has been donating the proceeds from the campaign to KidSportVermilion since the beginning. Whitney
stated, “that they plan to continue doing so in the future as it’s a great program.” The donation made this year was the largest yet, and Whitney attributed the success of the campaign to community involvement and the hard work of his staff.
“I am thankful for all the support from Vermilion and surrounding areas; this isn’t possible without them, and I would also like to thank my staff for all the hard work they put into this campaign each year,” commented Whitney.
KidSport Vermilion has been operating for more than 18 years and has provided grant funding to many children in the community. Mike van der Torre, Community Services Director expressed his gratitude towards the Tim Hortons in Vermilion for their yearly donations. He stated, “On behalf of KidSport we want to thank Tim Hortons and the community of Vermilion and area for their generous donation. It goes a long way to help children pay for their sport registration so that
everybody can play.”
Interested families are encouraged to check out their website https://kidsportcanada.ca/alberta/vermilion/ as they can fill out an application online or visit the
town office where they can pick up an application. The
is a great way for communities to come together and support local charities and organizations.
Major House Services Celebrates
Smile Cookie campaign
From left, Community Services Director Mike van der Torre, Janaka Rankothge, Jasmin Pingul, Assistant Manager Billie Isaac, Katherine Zuniega, Michelle Pataveg, Marcelo DeLuna, Manager Rommel Mandocdoc, and Owner Greg Whitney. Photo submitted
Major House Services owner Garry Dhaliwal (holding scissors, right) surrounded by Town of Vermilion Councillors and administration as well as friends and family for the new business’s ribbon cutting ceremony in Council Chambers on August 6. Photo Caylie Gnyra
Runner Visits Vermilion During Cross-Province Fundraiser
Caylie Gnyra Reporter
Kagan Kneen, Executive Director of the Lloydminster Social Action Coalition Society, stopped in Vermilion on August 11 en route across Alberta and Saskatchewan as part of his inspiring “Running For Shelter” campaign.
This initiative aims to raise $300,000 for the Lloydminster Men’s Shelter, with the goal of expanding services and purchasing and renovating a building with a total estimated cost of $1.2 million. Covering about 50–60 kilometers daily—that’s more than the 42.195 kilometers comprising a marathon— Kneen tents each night in local campgrounds, foregoing the most basic of creature comforts to better understand for himself—and to show those who follow along on social media— the physical and mental strain of living rough.
Kneen’s mother, Sandra, is accompanying him for the trip, towing a trailer behind an SUV. At first, she followed directly behind her son as he ran,
garnering supportive attention for the cause from other drivers. However, after multiple flat tires in under 10 days—resulting from driving on the shoulder of the road—the two decided on a different approach, with Sandra cruising ahead to important intersections to ensure Kneen’s safety as well as to provide hydration and nourishment when needed.
Kneen’s effort not only highlights the physical and emotional toll of homelessness but also serves as a call to action for the local area to support the shelter’s crucial work, which serves the 200-kilometer radius surrounding the Border City. Despite the grueling schedule, Kneen continues to manage his duties as Executive Director, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to this cause.
Visit https://www.lloydminstershelter.com/ to make donations to support this life-saving initiative. Learn more about Kneen’s experiences on the road by searching @runningforshelteryll on Instagram or TikTok.
2nd Annual Vermilion Mainstreet Jamboree
Brittany Bratrud
Submitted
FOCUS Society for Support Services (FOCUS) and Vermilion and District Housing Foundation (VDHF) are anticipating a vibrant evening of music and community camaraderie as two local not-forprofit organizations, join forces to host the 2nd Annual Vermilion Mainstreet Jamboree on September 6th, 2024. Set against the backdrop of downtown Vermilion, this event promises to be a wonderful evening for all attendees.
FOCUS and VDHF have collaborated to create an evening filled with musical entertainment and delectable cuisine.
Thanks to Alberta Broadband for their sponsorship of the evening’s entertainment, and to our other sponsors, Swift Fox Industries, Martin Plumbing and Heating, and G3 Vermilion. Talented local singer Cassie Cameron will be adding to the charm of the evening, serenading the audience during a delightful steak dinner, expertly catered by VDHF. After dinner, popular band The Oddibles, whose eclectic blend of genres is sure to get toes tapping and guests dancing until long after sunset.
The Jamboree aims not only to provide a memorable evening of fun and entertainment but also to foster a sense of community spirit and support for the invaluable work done by both VDHF and FOCUS. Attendees can look forward to not only enjoying great food and music but also connecting with neighbors and friends in a lively and festive environment.
The event will kick off at 5 PM on September 6th, 2024. Dinner and Jamboree tickets are $420 for a table or $60 for a seat – if you only would like to take in the music, the Jamboree dance kicks off at 7:30 and tickets can be purchased for $20 each. For those interested in attending this celebration of local talent and community spirit, mark your calendars for September 6th and reach out to Dawn Riley, Director of special projects at FOCUS dawn.riley@ focussociety.ca or Brittany Bratrud, Recreation & Marketing Director for VDHF brittany.bratrud@vdhf.ca . It’s an evening not to be missed as the streets come alive with music, laughter, and the warmth of shared experiences.
Kagan Kneen, Executive Director of the Lloydminster Social Action Coalition Society, stopped in Vermilion on August 11 amidst his 1,279-kilometre run across Alberta and Saskatchewan in support of the Lloydminster Men’s Shelter. Photo Caylie Gnyra
The 37th Annual Irma Summerspiel And Irma Days
Lorna Hamilton Reporter
The 37th annual Irma Summerspiel took place from July 31 to August 5. Alongside Irma Days, this event promised a week filled with excitement and enjoyment for all attendees. People from near and far eagerly looked forward to joining in the festivities, whether they were ball teams, curling enthusiasts, campers, or simply those seeking a good time and an early taste of the curling season.
Throughout the extended weekend, attendees had a multitude of activities to partake in and sights to see. The Summerspiel attracted teams from various locations, making the curling rink a vibrant hub of activity for both participants and fans. Similarly, the ball diamonds were abuzz with games throughout the weekend.
The schedule of events for the
Summerspiel began on July 31 with the Rock off Party BBQ, a gathering for sponsors and curlers, but was open to anyone who wanted to attend. From 5 to 7 p.m., participants enjoyed food and drinks, including beer and wine, which set the celebratory mood.
On August 1, a Curlers Golf event allowed participants to showcase their golfing skills. August 2 presented a unique opportunity for attendees to dress up as their favourite TV show, and had a chance to win the coveted best-dressed prize.
August 3 was a highlight of the event, as it featured the Banquet, Calcutta, and live entertainment with Banger Bingo a duo who performed bingo games but not like the ones you would play with grandma. Sunday Funday happened on August 4.
The grand finale of the Irma Summer-
1979 Sports Bar and Grille • A Cut Above Beef • A.J.A Do Soo Ltd. • Active Edge
Physical Therapy • Armstrongs Clothing & Sports • Battle River Implements
spiel took place on the last day of the event, with the curling finals for men’s, ladies’, mixed, and mixed doubles categories. Spectators had the opportunity to witness the thrilling conclusion of these highly competitive matches as teams battled it out for victory.
For a second year in a row on Friday, August 1, youth curlers joined in on the action for the 2nd Youth Curling event which provided the 34 youth curlers the opportunity to learn new skills and meet new friends.
In addition, Irma Days, organized by the Irma Agricultural Society, kicked off on August 5 with a pancake breakfast. The festivities continued with a parade at 11 a.m., followed by a day filled with various activities suitable for all age groups.
Sports enthusiasts had the opportunity to participate in a range of events during the Irma Summerspiel. Teams entered
Wainwright • Baughan Agencies • Bayer Corp • Bravo 1 • Denmax Energy Services
• Denwood Pharmacy • Duane White • Erickson Agro • F5 Services • Famos
Consulting • Farmhouse Catering • Fenton Ranch Ltd. • Glenholm Land and Cattle • Glow Hair and Body • Henry's Refrigeration • High Roller Welding Ltd. • Holt Transport • Integra Tire • Irma Business Centre • JB Flemming Farms • Kinect Physiotherapy & Wellness • Kinsella Transit • LD Oracheski & Sons • Mic's Mobile Concession • Primac Oilfield • Pugh Farms • R2 Signs • Raynda Seeds • San-Bar Farms • Serenity Healing Crystals & Books • SS Cattle Company • Valley Farms • Wainwright Eye Care Ltd. • Wainwright Jewellers • Wainwright Liquor & Cold Beer • XXX Farms
Major Sponsors
The Summerspiel Committee of 2024 would like to thank the following
Major Sponsors for their support!
Major Sponsor Level 3 ($1575)
Irma Co-op • Webb's Ford & Machinery • Fenton Hereford Ranch • Wayne Fm Stingray Radio • Creech's Funeral Home
Major Sponsor Level 2 ($1050) Adama • Buffalo Ventures • Denwood Motors • Fabricland Iloydminster
• Gratton Coulee Agri • Hollar's Hauling • Irma Elks • Kinsella Rec And Ag • Pleasant View Farms • Village Of Irma • Vision Credit Union
Major Sponsor Level 1 ($525)
ATCO • Buffalo Agencies • Buffalo Realty • Bumper To Bumper • Coldwell Banker Hometown Realty • Core Ag Inputs • Cutting Edge Ventures • Demo Daze • Glenholm Farms • Hall & Company • Irma Insurance • Irma Liquor • Irma Men's Club
Isaman Chopek Llp Kenlar Insulations Ltd Lazy Bee Honey Meatco Sales Munnsters • MR6M Construction • Newby Electric • Nutrien Ag Solutions • Parrish & Heimbecker - Wain • Prodigy Custom Contracting • Providence Grain Solutions • Ritchie Brothers • Rocky Mountain Equipment • Swyripaint • Tiger Contracting • Touchdown Land Consults United Rentals Value Drug Mart Wainalta Motors Wainwright Foot Care • Wards Hi Way Autobody • Willerton Ski Doo
We would also like to thank the committee members and volunteers, bar staff, Mic’s Concession, for running our booth. Also want to thank the curlers, Sterling curlers, ball teams and fans for making our Summerspiel and Slow Pitch tournament so much fun. We couldn't make this event such a success without you. Thank you and we hope to see you again next year at the 37th Annual Irma Summerspiel. Our sincerest apologies if we missed any thank you’s.
the Main Curling Spiel, which ran from July 31 to August 5, as well as the Mixed Double Event and the Slow Pitch Tournament.
Mixed Event Winners: C, B, and A. The Bill Oracheski Rink, The Nott Rink and the VanDoesburg Rink. Photos Irma Summerspiel.
Best dressed favourite TV show costume.
The group of youth curlers.
Mixed Doubles Winners(B and A: DeRoo and Shulman Rinks); Ladies’ Winners: the Nancy Hansen Rink from Rocky.
Men’s C,B, and A Event Winners! The Kyle Newby, Travis Willerton and Alenius Rinks.
AUCTIONS
Meier Unreserved Live Auction Sale for Ronwood Enterprises Ltd. Saturday August 17 10am. Consort. Kenworth C500B Tri/Axel Hot Oil Truck. 2017 Gerry’s Tri/Axel Double Drop. 1984 Kenworth Winch Truck. Lazer Tridem Tanker Trailer. Lazer Triden Pup Tank Trailer. 2001 Mack Winch Truck. John Deere Skid Steer, Liquid Storage Tanks, Fuel Tanks, Shop Equipment. Visit www.meierauction.com for more details
CAREER TRAINING
BLANKET THE PROVINCE with a classified ad. Only $269/wk (based on 25 words or less). Reach almost 80 weekly newspapers. Call NOW for details. 1-800282-6903 Ext 225; www.awna.com.
FARM MACHINERY
FEED AND SEED WE BUY DAMAGED GRAIN - Heated, Mixed, Tough, Light, Bugs, Spring Thrashed....Barley, Wheat, Oats, Peas, Flax, Canola. “On Farm Pickup”. Westcan Feed & Grain 1-877-250-5252.
ALBERTA FEED GRAIN: Buying Oats, Barley, Wheat, Canola, Peas, Screenings, Mixed Grains. Dry, Wet, Heated, or Spring Thresh. Prompt Payment. In House Trucks, In House Excreta Cleaning. Vac Rental. 1-888-483-8789.
HEALTH
GET YOUR MESSAGE SEEN ACROSS Alberta. The Blanket Classifieds or Value Ads reach over 600,000 Alberta readers weekly. Two options starting at $269 or $799 to get your message out! Business changes, hiring, items for sale, cancellations, tenders, etc. People are increasingly staying home and rely on their local newspapers for information. KEEP people in the loop with our 80 Weekly Community Newspapers. Call THIS NEWSPAPER now or email classifieds@ awna.com for details. 1-800-282-6903, 780-434-8746 X225. www.awna.com.
HIP/KNEE REPLACEMENT. Other medical condi-
Wile E.
tions causing TROUBLE WALKING or DRESSING? The Disability Tax Credit allows for $3,000 yearly tax credit and $30,000 lump sum refund. Take advantage of this offer. Apply NOW; quickest refund Nationwide: Expert help. 1-844-453-5372.
REAL ESTATE
SELLING MY RETIREMENT HOUSE with river and mountain views on 3.93 acres along the Red Deer River and adjoining 200+ acres of environmental reserve. Buy 4 acres and enjoy the use of 204 acres. For more information and pictures, see MLS listing #A2148481.
SERVICES
CRIMINAL RECORD? Why suffer employment/licensing loss? Travel/business opportunities? Be embarrassed? Think: Criminal Pardon. US entry waiver. Record purge. File destruction. Free consultation. 1-800-347-2540. www.accesslegalmjf.com.
PRIVATE MORTGAGE LENDER. All real estate
VIBES
Alysha
First United Church, 4918 - 52 Ave.
The Hallelujah Chorus, by G.F. Handel
VERMILION AND AREA BUSINESSES
Sue Chikie Reporter
Tofield held an action-packed event that brought the spirit of the Wild West to life during its Tofield Western Days! Presented by BHD Tubular in collaboration with the Tofield Ag Society, this spectacular rodeo event took place at the Tofield Sports Ground.
The excitement kicked off on Thursday, August 8, with a delightful Food Truck Fair at 4:30 p.m. that offered a mouthwatering array of cuisines, which satisfied the hunger pangs that came to life from the aroma of the gastronomic treats from renowned vendors like Pork and Pickle, Branded Bites, and more. But the evening was not just about the food - the kids reveled in fun activities such
as face painting, balloon animals, inflatables, and a petting zoo that were on-site to keep them entertained.
Also on Thursday, the atmosphere became electric with the commencement of the annual Tofield Bull Bash at 7 p.m. In a change from previous years, a late-night beer garden followed instead of a cabaret.
The Friday events were equally thrilling, with the Promenade/Street Fair taking center stage from 5 to 9 p.m. During this time, main street was closed to traffic, allowing attendees to fully immerse themselves in the festivities.
Friday’s Rodeo Slack started at 6 p.m. and offered a taste of the thrilling action that would keep the spectators on the
Tofield Western Days: The Spirit Of The Wild West
edge of their seats during Saturday’s main Sodbuster Rodeo event.
Saturday promised to be an actionpacked day from start to finish and it certainly kept that promise as visitors were able to indulge in and satisfy their tastebuds and hunger with a scrumptious pancake breakfast from 9 to 11 a.m., as the culinary prowess of the the Agricultural Services Board cooks were on full display as they served up a storm of pancakes, eggs, sausage, fruits, coffee, juice, and more. The Western Market was open from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. and provided many a folk the opportunity to peruse the wares and purchase their likes.
The main event, the Sodbuster Rodeo Performance, commenced at 3 p.m., and
featured an adrenaline-pumping lineup of adult bull riding, steer riding, barrel racing, bareback, tie-down roping, saddlebronc, and team roping. As if that weren’t enough, the intermission featured mutton bustin that showcased children aged 4-6 daring to stay on the back of those wild muttons on August 10 and 11. Attendees also kicked up their heels and danced the night away to Slow Walking Walter at 9 p.m.
The excitement continued into the final day, with a repeat of the thrilling Sodbuster Rodeo performance and all its attractions at 2 p.m. on the grounds.
The Tofield Western Days was a celebration of Western heritage, and sporting excellence.
I’m staying the eight! Photos Sue Chikie
Lorna Hamilton Reporter
Strathcona Vintage Tractor Pulls And Show: You Don’t Want To Miss This
In 2005, the Strathcona Vintage Tractor Association (SVTA) came into existence as a non-profit organization, uniting those in and around Strathcona County with a shared interest in preserving Alberta’s rich agricultural history.
Marking a significant milestone, the Strathcona Vintage Tractor Association is excited to unveil its plans for the 19th Annual Western Vintage Tractor Pull and Show, scheduled for August 24 and 25.
Originating from the Sherwood Park / Ardrossan vicinity, the SVTA’s focus has been on antique tractors manufactured up to 1960, emphasizing the stock nature of the vehicles that compete for prizes. As Bob Beveridge, Vice President of SVTA, elaborates, “That would mean everything including the 2- cylinder John Deere tractors, the 4-cylinders that John Deere called the ’’new generation’ became 4 and 6 cylinders so they are too new to be involved in our competition.
The popularity of this annual event has
soared through the years.
Beveridge notes, “Our pull event has witnessed the engagement of as many as 139 tractors competing in 2023 and over 3200 adults and young adults, along with 260 to 320 children aged 14 and under. Our reach extends to competitors from locations as diverse as southern Alberta, Lashburn, Saskatchewan, Grand Prairie, and Dawson Creek in British Columbia. We take pride in being recognized as the premier Western Canadian Tractor Pull event.”
Safety and adherence to rules take precedence within SVTA’s competition framework. Electronic weigh scales, certified and positioned within 100 meters of the track, underscore their commitment to maintaining a secure environment. The event categorizes tractors into ten distinct weight classes, ensuring fair competition. As Beveridge clarifies, “Each tractor competes based on its weight class, with categories ranging from 2500lb tractors to the sizable 12,000lb ones.”
Beyond the tractor pulls, the two-day
affair envelops attendees in an array of attractions. A 50/50 draw with a guaranteed $500 minimum and silent auction add a touch of anticipation to the experience. Visitors can also witness threshing and binding demonstrations, engage with sawmill exhibitions, and immerse themselves in displays of antique equipment. Children can find their haven in the activity area, brimming with a bouncy castle, a vast sand pile with accompanying toys, and an assortment of amusements such as face painting, horse wagon rides, and train wagon rides. Notably, all these children’s activities come at no cost. Culinary delights from food vendors cater to diverse tastes, grandstand seating, and three expansive tents promise a comfortable view.
The event provides primitive camping for attendees, further enhancing the overall experience. However, as per the property’s regulations, no dogs are permitted on site due to the County regulation. Welcoming volunteers stand ready to assist, identifiable by their safety vests.
This memorable event unfolds on the sprawling grounds of the Strathcona County’s historic Pointe aux Pins Acres (formerly the Bremner Farm), located east of Sherwood Park at 53452 Range Road 225, follow the well-marked signs It spans two days, commencing at 10 a.m.
